The storm's track is uncertain, but even if it stays well off-shore, it could cause high seas and rip currents.

Hermine was downgraded from a hurricane to a tropical storm Friday after it made landfall in Florida and then moved up over the Carolinas.

Meteorologists said that an area of high pressure should keep the storm well to the south of New England at least through Sunday night. It's unclear whether it will move closer to the coast, bringing rain and wind.

Boat owners along New Hampshire's coast were preparing to move to protected harbors if necessary.

"The problem with Rye is the ocean comes right in from the direction the wind's supposed to blow, so if you get the surge in, it's just too much for the moorings to hold," said Capt. Peter Reynolds of Granite State Whale Watch. "You worry about something breaking loose."

"Check your lines, check your chain, make sure all of your ground tackle is intact and in good shape, and it's always good advice to add extra," Axtin said.

The Coast Guard urged boaters and beachgoers to be aware of potentially heavy surf and riptides.

"If some of the reports are correct, we could see surf in the 4- to 5-foot range on Sunday," Hampton Beach Lifeguard Patrol Chief Jim Donahue said.

Hampton Beach lifeguards said they are prepared.

"Monday on Labor Day, I believe, they're calling for rain and lower temperatures, so that in itself is going to keep the crowds down," Donahue said.

If the high surf materializes, the Coast Guard is asking recreational boaters to consider staying ashore. Anyone who does venture out is asked to file a float plan, have multiple means of communication and wear their life jackets.